Thermal conversion of biomass: a comparative review of different pyrolysis processes

Abstract

Biomass has been worldwide seen as a promising solution for meeting the increasing energy demands of a growing population, replacing fossil fuels in whole or in part, and achieving sustainable development. The use of biomass as an energy source is done through various conversion routes such as combustion, gasification and pyrolysis. Pyrolysis is a simple and efficient thermochemical conversion process to obtain energy from biomass and generate high energy density products. These technologies used for energy utilization are distinguished according to the characteristics of the biomass and product, process efficiency, amount of oxidant used, temperature and rate of heating, among others. The technical and scientific knowledge of biomedical thermochemical conversion options is a fundamental step both for academic researchers who aim to investigate these technologies to improve and optimize these processes, and for entrepreneurs who aim to implement biorefineries in the market. In this context, this work aimed to review the latest pyrolysis technologies, discussing the characteristics and the main variables of this technology.